Taking care of ourselves

If you were asked the question "what is the best way is to care of yourself" what would be your first response?

For some of you the response may be daily exercise or eating healthy. And although these are both extremely important & necessary, taking care of ourselves actually goes beyond the physical aspects. We also need to care for ourselves mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as well.

Matthew 11:28

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

We can care for ourselves emotionally & mentally by saying no to anything that causes you frustration. At times we might say yes out of fear of upsetting others which only causes resentment within us so it's imperative to determine what your boundaries are. If you are unsure make a list of what your non-negotiables are. Write down what you enjoy and what you don't enjoy and make sure you stick to your boundaries around each.

Another way to take care of yourself is by letting go of worry. Ah, does this speak volumes? If so, than you probably already realize your worries and anxieties may be preventing you from living the life God wants you to have. Learn to ask God for courage to step out in faith and to follow what he is putting on your heart. Make this part of your daily prayer!

If you want to build a stronger relationship with the Lord, get involved with a Bible study group or ask a friend to do one with you. The more time you spend in prayer seeking God's wisdom the more your faith will be strengthened. Whatever you feel is lacking in your life start praying about it and making it a priority, life is too short not to. Too often we allow distractions and excuses to keep us from taking care of ourselves. Trust me, I struggle with distractions myself, I believe we all do at some point.

Psalm 55:22

Cast your cares on the lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fail.

Here's a recommendation to help get you started. Make a list of all the areas in your life that you would like to change. Draw three columns on a sheet of paper, first column list all the areas that need to be improved. In the second column write why you want to change it and how the change will benefit you. And in the last column list all the ways in which you can make the necessary changes a reality, what steps do you need to take? Break them down, example step 1, step 2 and so on. Post the list on your refrigerator or on a bulletin board where you can look at the list every day. As you begin transforming your life make note of your progress, celebrate milestones and thank God for strengthening you.

1 Peter 5:7-9

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

Your challenge is to pray and ask God for courage and strength. Ask for his guiding hand to direct your steps so that you are able to make changes in your life that will allow you to prioritize your needs in order to live a fulfilling life.

3 John 1:2

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.

Written by: Jill Theriault

Crossroads Coaching - @crossroadscoachingongodstime